Simon Moves Up Competing Outlet Opening

CHESTERFIELD, MO—With more tenants added, the joint venture of Indianapolis-based Simon Property Group and Ft. Worth-based Woodmont Co. said it has moved up the opening of its $85 million St. Louis Premium Outlets mall to late August 2013.

Simon and Bloomfield Hills, Mich.-based Taubman Centers have been locked in a battle to build competing outlet centers here. Taubman broke ground in April on its Prestige Outlets Chesterfield here. Both companies had said they wouldn’t open until fall 2013.

Simon’s mall is part of the Chesterfield Blue Valley development at Interstate 64 and US Highway 40. The first phase is expected to have 350,000 sq. ft.

In a recent statement, Simon said it has added tenants Nike, Cole Haan, Converse, Gymboree, Adidas, Wilsons Leather and Claire’s Accessories. Other tenants in the planned 85-store roster include anchor Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5(TH), as well as Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, J. Crew and Tommy Hilfiger.

"We appreciate the support of the merchant community and their confidence in St. Louis Premium Outlets," commented John R. Klein, President of Simon's Premium Outlets platform. "With over 80% of the project committed, we felt it was appropriate to move the opening date up to August 22, 2013 to best meet the needs of our shoppers and retailers."